The homes are being designed specifically to accommodate older people and people with special needs.

"I warmly welcome the commencement of construction of these new houses which will provide modern and comfortable facilities for many older residents and those with particular needs," said Mayor Norma Foley.

"It is wonderful to see this development being advanced under the Rebuilding Ireland programme and with the support of Kerry County Council and I look forward to the completion of these units at the earliest opportunity,' said Mayor Foley.

The entire development will be located on 1.25 hectares of land located just off the Killeen Road with provision for 34 parking spaces.

The proposal to build the new homes was first announced by Kerry County Council, two years ago, in May 2016. At the time St Vincent de Paul in Tralee said the houses were "long overdue".